Bariatric Surgery Washington DC Requires Changes to Eating Habits

Bariatric surgery Washington DC is surgery to help you lose weight, but the procedure alone will not yield results.  Successful results after bariatric surgery DC require a life-long commitment to healthy eating habits.

Portion sizes after bariatric surgery Washington DC

One of the biggest changes that you will have to make after bariatric surgery DC is that your portion sizes will need to be much smaller.  Bariatric surgery procedures DC alter your stomach so that it holds only a small amount of food.  A normal stomach can hold about 6 cups of food, but the capacity of your new stomach will depend on your surgeon and which bariatric surgery options Washington DC you chose.  Laparoscopic banding creates an adjustable pouch that usually has a capacity between ½ cup and 1 cup.  If you chose gastric sleeve bariatric surgery DC, your stomach will hold about 10 ounces of food.  A stomach after gastric bypass may initially only hold about 2 tablespoons of food, but that can change as your stomach heals and stretches.

Eat several small meals a day after bariatric surgery DC

The small portion sizes required following bariatric surgery DC will mean that you can no longer eat the traditional three meals a day.  Instead, your bariatric surgery doctors Washington DC will likely recommend that you eat 5-6 small meals per day.

Monitor your intake of liquids

With or without bariatric surgery procedures DC, staying hydrated is an important part of staying healthy and after bariatric surgery DC you will have to put more thought into how you do so.  Even with a small stomach pouch, if you drink a lot of high-calorie beverages they may go right through your stomach and keep you from losing a significant amount of weight.  Water is the best choice for staying hydrated, and your bariatric surgery doctors Washington DC may recommend that you do not drink during your meals so you do not fill your small stomach with only liquids.

Be aware of nutritional deficiencies

Another change that you will have to make after bariatric surgery DC is that you will have to make sure that you are getting enough nutrients and you may be monitored for nutritional deficiencies.  Some bariatric surgery options Washington DC (specifically gastric bypass) can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies so you will have to read food labels carefully and visit your doctor regularly for checkups.  Visit www.medstarwashington.org to learn more about bariatric surgery options Washington DC.

Total Hip Replacement Washington DC due to Arthritis

Your hips are ball and socket joints on either side of your pelvis.  They allow motion and stability, but because they bear your weight they are susceptible to damage.  The most common cause of a break down of tissue in the hip is arthritis.  Arthritis can be mild, but when it becomes severe a total hip replacement Washington DC is sometimes needed.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic condition that can cause pain and limited movement in joints.  It can affect any joint in the body, but some of the most commonly affected joints are the hands, knees, and hips.  The cause of arthritis depends on the type of arthritis.  The two most common types are called osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis rarely requires hip replacement surgery DC

Rheumatoid arthritis is less common than osteoarthritis.  Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that your body’s immune system attacks its own healthy cells and tissues.  It causes inflammation of the joints and can affect how they look and function.  Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint, but it is most common in the hands so it is rare that rheumatoid arthritis leads to hip replacement surgery DC.

Total hip replacement Washington DC and osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis.  Your joints have cartilage to help them move smoothly, and osteoarthritis is the break down of this cartilage.  It can lead to pain and limited range of motion.  It is one of the most common conditions to lead to hip replacement surgery Washington DC because it is usually worse in weight bearing joints.  It is usually caused by normal wear and tear, so those who are older and who are overweight are more likely to need hip replacement surgery DC due to osteoarthritis.

Hip replacement surgery Washington DC

When your doctor determines that the breakdown of cartilage in your hip is severe enough that medication and other nonsurgical treatments are not enough, he or she may recommend hip replacement surgery Washington DC.  During hip replacement surgery DC, your doctor removes the top of your femur and part of the socket.  Your doctor finishes your hip replacement surgery Washington DC by putting artificial parts in their place. To learn more about hip replacement surgery DC, visit http://www.medstarwashington.org/our-services/orthopaedics/treatments/hip-surgery/.

Diagnosing Pituitary Tumors Washington DC and Choosing a Surgical Treatment

Diagnosing pituitary tumors Washington DC usually includes imaging tests to determine the size and exact location of the tumor.  After diagnosis, treatment often includes surgery and the imaging tests can help your doctor decide what type of surgery is right for you.  The goal of the surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible.  This is usually done using an endoscopic procedure, but sometimes a procedure called a craniotomy is necessary.

Diagnosing pituitary tumors Washington DC and preparing for surgery

Before surgical pituitary treatments Washington DC, sometimes other treatments such as radiation therapy will be needed.  Radiation uses x-rays to kill cancer cells and can be effective before surgery by shrinking the tumor and making it easier to remove.  If the pituitary tumor is functional (meaning that it produces excess hormones) you may be put on medication before your surgery to block hormones and lessen symptoms.

Endoscopic pituitary tumor treatments Washington DC

Endoscopic pituitary tumor treatments Washington DC use a long flexible tube called an endoscope.  The endoscope has a light and a camera and sends the image to a screen so your doctor can see.  It is usually inserted through the nose, but sometimes it needs to be inserted through an incision behind your upper lip.  The doctor uses the endoscope and tiny tools to remove the tumor in small pieces.  This is the most common surgical pituitary tumor treatment Washington DC.

Craniotomy for pituitary tumors DC

If the tumor is very large or has affected the brain or nerves, your doctors may need to preform a craniotomy.  During this procedure, your doctor makes two incisions to access the brain through the skull.  Your surgeon uses endoscopic tools to see the tumor and nearby structures and removes the tumor.

After your pituitary tumor treatments Washington DC

After endoscopic pituitary tumor treatments Washington DC, most people need to spend a few days in the hospital.  After a craniotomy, more recovery time may be needed.  During this time, you will be closely monitored by nurses to track pituitary function.  You can learn more about pituitary tumor treatments Washington DC at www.medstarwashington.org/.

How to Get Around After ACL Reconstruction Surgery in DC

ACL injuries are brutally painful, not only physically but emotionally as well. As someone with an active lifestyle, it is difficult to imagine staying at home in bed while your ACL reconstruction heals. The good news is that living in Washington, DC has unique benefits that aren’t necessarily true of other cities: almost everything is accessible for those who can’t be active and on their feet. Read on to find out how to get around after ACL reconstruction surgery in DC.

Start at the Source

Hopefully, you’ve chosen a hospital that has a free shuttle service to allow you to get to check-ups and physical therapy easily. If you’re still in the process of choosing the hospital, consider this service the highest priority. This will significantly cut down the stress of commuting and will give you peace of mind knowing you won’t have to find a way to make it to your appointments. Free shuttle service for patients is not offered by all hospitals, so make sure yours does.

Act Like a Tourist

Staying at home to heal from your ACL reconstruction surgery DC may eventually leave you climbing the walls. Get out and see your city from the perspective of a tourist. There are tons of tour companies that allow passengers to sit and are wheelchair accessible. Many of them have a drop-off feature which allows you to get off at any tour stop and get back on when the next bus comes. Most monuments and museums to see in DC are wheelchair-accessible. You might learn something new about your city and have the time to explore all of the historically significant and beautiful features that make DC unique.

Find Others Recovering from ACL Reconstruction Surgery DC

They will have unique perspectives and advice that others may not have thought about. Some offer group gatherings and provide buses or transportation to get members to meet-ups, and some will simply suggest unique ways to get from your home to work. Either way, people who have gone through the frustration of getting around after ACL reconstruction surgery in DC will be a lifesaver. Good luck!

Bariatric Surgery in DC – Fun Things to Do While You Recover

Bariatric surgery takes an emotional toll on many people as they watch their bodies change and feel the pain from surgery. The worst thing you can do during this time is staying in your own head and question yourself, shut yourself off from loved ones, and become depressed. Instead, get out there and have some fun as you recover from bariatric surgery DC.

Take a Class

One of the great things about Washington, DC is the multitude of classes and adult education options that are available for free or cheap. Get a friend to go with you or just treat yourself to learning a new skill or talent. Sewing, drama, music, and language classes are all common classes available pretty much anywhere that will allow you to learn something new and meet people who share your interests.

Embrace Your Bariatric Surgery in DC

Take advantage of the countless restaurants in DC. Try a new restaurant that serves healthy, soothing food. You’ll feel great about treating your body to something good for it and start the new lifestyle you’ve been wanting for years. Once you’ve found a new treat, take a calming walk around DC. Enjoy the nature, buildings, statues, street art, and general serenity of DC. After you’ve fed your body and soul, you’ll know bariatric surgery in DC was the best decision you’ve ever made.

Gather Your Friends for a Photoshoot!

Get your friends together for an unofficial, silly photoshoot. Grab some funny props and find a secluded corner of a beautiful park in DC. Play some fun music and take turns being the photographer for each-other. Make funny faces and capture some candid pictures of each other laughing your heads off. Having an escape from the seriousness of the real world and recovery will be healing and comforting, and your pictures will last a lifetime!

Find a New Sport

There are tons of unique and fun sports that you can do while you recover from your surgery. Archery, calisthenics, gentle water aerobics, and frisbee golf are all sports that are really enjoyable. Many of them are even available at local hospitals! Just be sure to check with your doctor to see when you’re able to take on new physical activity. Is there anything better than getting fresh air and challenging yourself?

Bariatrics and Weight Management DC: Preparing for Surgery

For those that have been given the “all clear” for weight loss surgery DC, there are many things that must be done in order to prepare for the procedure itself as well as the time that is spent recovering after it has been completed. While each situation will be different, there are some common things to be done that will be similar across the board for all bariatrics and weight management DC patients that can leave you and your loved ones feeling confident and ready to go.

Weight Loss Surgery: A Bariatrics and Weight Management DC Choice

- Get your home in order. Even though you may not be able to do a thorough cleaning yourself, it is important to have things done so that when you’re recovering, you can focus solely on improving without worrying about the state of your home. Have laundry ready to go, go grocery shopping for the recommended food items and make sure your bills are paid up and good to go. The first few weeks after surgery are very difficult, and some things can easily slip through the cracks.

- Inform your family and friends about your procedure and ask them for help. More often than not, they will be more than willing to help you through the recovery process, and knowing that you have others to count on can make the process much easier to handle. They can be sure that you’re eating and drinking enough, that you’re taking your vitamins and that you aren’t trying to eat things that you shouldn’t. Essentially, they’re your support system.

- Prepare mentally for weight loss surgery DC. This means saying goodbye to unhealthy habits and foods, and being committed to a total change. No more going through the drive-thru or eating giant portions. No more soda or candy or ice cream… no more bad choices. It’s hard and it’s a lot to deal with, but the end results are well worth it. Taking time to prepare mentally is important because only you will know what it feels like to give these things up in an effort to make a change.

- Don’t give up. There will be pain. There will be struggle. There will be a lot of times where you want to give up and just fall back into old habits, but this isn’t what you’re trying to do in the long run. The trials and tribulations will be worth it in the end when you’re down to close to the weight you want to be at, and you’re able to show off all of your hard work - and be healthier, happier and more mobile.

Recovering from Weight Management Washington DC Surgery

Whether you’re calling it gastric bypass surgery or weight loss surgery, after you’ve had it, you’ll need to spend some time recovering. This is a lengthy process that can take months before you’ll feel like yourself and “normal” again, but the time is well worth it, especially if you’re able to stick with your diet and make some progress on your weight loss journey. Knowing what you expect can make getting through the beginning portion of the weight management Washington DC process much easier to bear.

Since you’ll be out of commission for a while after coming home, it’s a good idea to prepare as much as possible before having the surgery, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.

Weight Management Washington DC: How to Prepare

- Ask for the help of friends and family. This is a given, because in many cases, these individuals were helping their loved ones before the surgery and have become accustomed to providing care, running errands and giving support. It is important to slowly move away from the help that they provide and focus on becoming more independent, but in the immediate weeks and months following the surgery, this may not be possible.

- Get the home ready. Be sure to have a dedicated sleeping spot, preferably close to the restroom if possible. Keep things handy that you will need - hand weights, elastic exercise bands, the television remote, a water bottle - all of these will be important to recovery. Even though the stomach is only able to contain a very small amount of food and liquids, it is important to try to drink the proper amount of water in order to remain hydrated.

- Be ready to work hard. This isn’t a walk down easy street, committing to a healthier lifestyle will take a lot of work, dedication and focus, and it is difficult. You’ll want to give up, want to cave in to your cravings or temptation… but as you continue to say no, things will get easier, and you can be proud of the progress that you’re making. Strength will come little by little, as will your tolerance for an preference of good, healthy food choices. Weight management is not something that simply ends after the surgery has been done and patients have healed, it is something that must be carried on for the rest of your life.

Looking for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment DC Information?

There’s nothing worse than feeling sick and not being able to do anything about it, especially if this illness keeps you from doing the things that you love. For people that have to endure inflammatory bowel disease, things are even worse because not only do you have to worry about the symptoms and side effects of this condition, but you’ll need to manage them and make decisions to help keep them from occurring. For those that have recently been diagnosed with IBD, and are looking into different treatment options, there are plenty of things that you can do.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment DC Options

For most patients, there are two distinct options for treatment with one acting as a “last resort” or being used on extremely severe cases. Even a quick online search for information at reputable sites like http://www.medstarwashington.org will show you that this condition is commonly managed and treated via the use of medications… and when/if those don’t work, surgical options come into play. Most medical professionals will want to take the simpler route first in order to see if it’s enough to help patients, so they’ll start with prescribing medications meant to treat inflammatory bowel syndrome and advising people to change their diets, paying close attention to the foods that they consume and eliminating the ones that typically cause issues.

Even though each person is 100% different in terms of what causes the issues within the bowel, there are lists of foods that are common culprits, ways to eliminate them without sacrificing nutrition, and substitutes for them, along with recipes, stories about the things that others have done to help their conditions improve, and what it was like to cope with the illness available with simple online searches. If these changes are not enough, though, your health care provider may suggest surgical procedures that can remove the affected portions of the digestive system, helping correct the condition immediately. Even in cases where surgery is necessary, many patients also have to take medications in conjunction in order to better manage the problems - but again, this will be at the discretion of your inflammatory bowel disease treatment Washington DC specialist, and based on the severity of the symptoms that you experience.

Helping Yourself After Hip Replacement Surgery DC

Hip Surgery DC: What to Expect

Since the goal with hip replacement surgery DC is to get patients back on their feet as soon as possible and moving around better than they could prior to the surgery, it’s no surprise that patients should expect their surgeons and medical teams to push them quickly after they have gone under the knife. Since the legs and hips are so often used throughout the day, you shouldn’t expect to be off your feet for too long; most patients are advised to get up and start moving around slowly and with the use of a walker within hours of surgery. Yes, you’ll need to stay in the hospital for anywhere up to 4 days to make sure that you’re able to do things like getting in and out of bed, going to the bathroom, managing your own pain and performing specific exercises that you have been instructed to do by your doctors, but in order to get he most out of your hip, you won’t be able to slack off. Expect some pain and an adjustment process, but your new hip will heal and integrate itself into your body best when it is used almost immediately, allowing you to regain strength and mobility over a period of time.

Coping With a Hip Replacement Surgery DC

This is a major surgery, but at the same time, it does not have the same “down time” that many other surgeries do. To stay positive throughout the time where you’re regaining mobility and allowing the surgical site to heal, there are many things that you can do.

- Celebrate the small victories. This means paying attention to how things look and feel. Make note of when you’re first able to move around without the walker, of the day where you don’t need to take multiple doses of pain medication, or when your hip surgery site doesn’t have to stay covered anymore.

- Work hard to get to the point where you can do your first workout or exercise routine after this surgery. It doesn’t have to be anything huge, even walking on the treadmill for 20 minutes is an improvement, because many patients had pain that was so severe that this was impossible before surgery.

- Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You’re trying to get better, not push yourself too far and potentially cause injuries that will set your recovery back.

ACL Surgery Washington DC Recovery Tips

How to Recover After ACL Surgery Washington DC

1.Listen to the advice from your doctors and nurses. They are familiar with the specifics of the surgery and what it takes to full recover, so their advice isn’t optional; they’re trying to help get you through the worst and back to your regularly scheduled activities as soon as possible. For more information, you can visit www.medstarwashington.org and get into contact with professionals.

2.Don’t skip out on appointments to meet with medical professionals. ACL surgery DC will require you to see doctors as a follow up, have physical therapy, and attend sessions regarding the post-op care and necessary recovery information. These are meant to help you get back on track and follow a set time table for recovery… so you cannot skip them because you don’t feel they’ll help.

3.Eat right and get enough sleep. Your body being as healthy as possible will help you to heal more quickly. The healthier you are, the healthier your body is, so making good choices can help to promote faster healing and a better chance for “perfect” recovery.

4.Take all medications, because they can help to keep you motivated. Your pain levels should gradually decrease as you heal, but it’s common for the pain to reemerge when you begin your physical therapy, as you’ll be rebuilding muscle and using areas of the body that have been dormant. Take the medication as needed, because it will keep you motivated and able to continue with your rehab. The more days you skip, the more likely it is that you’ll fall behind, leading to an increase in the time spent getting back to normal.

5. Deal with the injury. This is something that many people overlook, and brushing this aside is a good way to develop negative feelings, which is not ideal. Take the time to fully consider your situation and what it means to recover, as well as what you need to do in order to make this possible. See every day as a small victory, every goal that you reach as a win. You may not be out on the field with your teammates right now, but by working hard to make it through the ACL surgery recovery, you’ll get back there in no time, too.

Do Knee Injuries Always Involve ACL Repair Washington DC?

Knee injuries are the absolute worst. At best, they mean being a little careful about the amount of walking or moving that is done for a few days, and at worst, it can result in the need for surgery and months of recovery time. Either option is an inconvenience for patients, making it necessary to carefully consider all options and ensure that the treatment that is received is not only quality - but the right option for your particular injury.

ACL Repair Washington DC: What is it?

No matter what the injury to the knee is, it is important to get the opinion of a medical professional. In some cases, a simple evaluation is the only thing that is necessary, but in order instances, it will be necessary to get an X-ray or an MRI completed in order to assess the true extent of the damage. There are many tests that can be done in order to assess the status and health of the knee and its muscles and ligaments, so getting a correct diagnosis is important. Qualified and trusted specialists that will be more than happy to assist you throughout this process as well as the resulting treatment methods can be found by visiting sites like http://www.medstarwashington.org/.

ACL repair is necessary when the ligaments within the knee are sprained to the point of tearing either partially or completely. There are three “grades” of these sprains, with a 1 featuring mild damage and a 3 resulting in a complete tear of the ligaments, leaving the knee joint completely unstable. When repairs are done, the ligament is completely reconstructed using a tissue graft in order to provide a surface for the new ligament to grow upon.

ACL Repair Washington DC Procedures

Small incisions will be made on either side of the knee. These incisions are often done in a less invasive surgery technique so that patients will have a shorter recovery time, get out of the hospital sooner, and can go back to doing the activities that they love. The surgery will not be done immediately after the injury in order to give the area time to begin healing - the inflammation of the muscles can decrease, the area can be used sparingly before the surgery and the chance for scarring will decrease, ensuring that surgery patients will have a better chance for regaining full use of the knee after ACL repair Washington DC has been completed.

Recovery From Total Hip Replacement Washington DC

They say that slow and steady wins the race, and in the case of a hip replacement DC recovery process, this is no different. Patients will not be able to be up and moving around immediately following the surgical process, but with some hard work and patience, it’s possible for them to make progress over time as long as they follow all given instructions.

Total hip replacement Washington DC - short term recovery

Once you’ve had the procedure done, your doctors will keep you in the hospital for a few days to ensure that you are able to perform basic movements. This means getting into and out of the bed, standing steadily and walking short differences. Days one and two will feature patients learning to use a walker to assist them with standing and moving around, and ensure that the incision site is beginning to heal as it needs to. Typically, hip replacement patients will get to go home on the third day after their surgery, and learn how to move around within their own homes. It is important that once patients are at home, they are careful not to re-injure the surgery site. This is done through careful, monitored movement around their homes and a gradual decrease of pain medication. This is the most important step, because in order to assess the true recovery level, it’s necessary to know when the pain level is decreasing without assistance. As this happens, it will become possible to “push” the body a little harder, encouraging heavier use of the newly implanted hip.

Long term total hip replacement Washington DC recovery

In the long run, total hip replacement patients can be considered completely healed when their bodies feel normal again. This means being able to return to work, to exercising or to a typical routine without feeling pain, discomfort or limitation. Even though every patient is different, this can usually be clocked in at around 6 months from the surgery date it everything goes as planned. Not only will patients feel better from the surgery, but they’ll also notice an improvement in ability to move and live without pain than was possible for them before having the total hip replacment Washington DC surgery.

The idea behind having this type of surgery is to give people a chance at reclaiming mobility and living their lives to the fullest. If you’re living with hip pain and want to learn more about whether or not having hip replacement surgery is for you, visit www.medstarwashington.org to learn more.

Things to Look Forward to After Bariatric Surgery DC

Bariatric surgery is a long, grueling process that is not what people can consider to be easy… but the outcome is one that is well worth the hard work and applied effort. This type of surgery is meant to save people’s lives by giving them a chance to improve their health, so there are a lot of things to look forward to after having weight loss surgery. Focusing on the positives can help to make the recovery and transition processes easier to deal with, and can give you an incentive to work harder at meeting your goals.

Bariatric Surgery DC Emotional Improvements

- You’ll likely feel more positive about yourself once you go through with the surgery and begin your new lifestyle. You’ll be making better choices, having more positive interactions with the people around you, and overall making progress toward your goals in no time at all.

- Bariatric surgery DC will help you become happier. You’ll be able to see and feel the process of yourself losing weight and being capable of doing things that you weren’t able to before. Setting small goals will help to prolong these feelings, and can also give you motivation to keep pushing forward.

- You will be less stressed because your health will improve each day. You will feel yourself getting stronger, get positive reports from your doctors and be able to do more for yourself, which means that your family and friends can take a break and begin focusing on themselves again.

Physical Improvements After Batiatric Surgery

- You will lose weight - lots of it. You’ll need to follow the instructions given to you by your medical team, but if you do so, there’s no reason to think that your weight won’t decrease significantly in the first few months to a year after your surgery. This means a lot, but for many, it simply means a chance to buy a new wardrobe - to reinvent themselves after a long period of suffering and unhappiness.

- Your mobility will improve. At first, it will be small things like being able to move throughout your home without an issue, but this will progress to you being able to go outside and take walks, swim or even do moderate exercise. Pushing yourself is a goo way to become stronger.

- Weight loss surgery will allow you to make better decisions when it comes to your own health. This means choosing to eat the things that will improve your health, being able to think more clearly and focus on your recovery and your future. 

Bariatric surgery Washingtin DC is a chance at a new lifestyle for everyone that undergoes it, but the surgery can only do so much, and it’s up to the patient to ensure that these changes and improvements are lasting.

The Risks of A-fib and Prevention Strategies

Written By: Tony Amodeo

A-fib, or atrial fibrillation, is a type of irregular heartbeat that can exist in individuals of any age. A-fib becomes more likely as we get older. Medical studies indicate that because people are now living longer the volume of cases will continue to increase accordingly. Many people are not aware of the potential seriousness of the problem, although its presence exponentially equates to the likelihood of death from heart problems as well as stroke. For further information regarding additional heart problems and stroke you can visit A-fib Treatment Washington DC. Those who are mostly likely to be at the greatest risk for A-fib are those who have a combination of any of the following conditions:

• Over fifty years old: The likelihood for AFib increases dramatically as we age. Cases involving children are less common.
• Hypertension: Those with lengthy periods of uncontrolled blood pressure are known to be at high risk for A-fib.
• Existing heart disease: Some of these conditions include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, conditions associated with the heart valves, coronary syndromes, a history of heart attack, a family history of heart problems, and anyone who has had related surgery.
• Excessive alcohol usage: Those consuming high volumes of alcohol are putting themselves at significantly increased risk.
• Sleep-related disorders: Although a direct correlation has not been established, those with obstructive sleep apnea that begin treatment can improve their A-fib condition.
• Athletic competition: Athletes often develop the condition, resulting from sustained rapid heart rates.
• Other diseases: Those with diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and asthma are frequently determined to have A-fib.

If you think you may have atrial fibrillation, or are a likely candidate to develop the problem, it is best to detect the problem early on. Knowing and understanding the symptoms is very important. Seeking proper medical care from a specialist is highly recommended, as advancements in treating the problem are evolving. A heart-healthy lifestyle is the best means of prevention. Specific prevention strategies are as follows:

• Maintaining a daily regimen of physical activity such as running or walking to stay in shape.
• Eating a balanced diet that is low in salt, saturated and trans-fats, as well as cholesterol.
• Have your cholesterol checked and educate yourself on the sources of LDL and HDL-“the good and bad” cholesterol.
• Check your blood pressure regularly to determine if it is high.
• Avoid drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, as both can be harmful in large quantities.
• Don’t smoke cigarettes, as they have a wide range of negative effects on health.
• Maintain a healthy weight, as roughly 1/3 of those in the US are now classified as obese.
• Make efforts to reduce unnecessary stress, as constant stress leads to a multitude of health problems.

Key Things to Know about ACL Surgery Washington DC

Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are quite common. Around 200,000 such injuries happen each year, 100,000 of which will require surgical intervention. However, not all surgeries are the same.

Traditional and Anatomical ACL Surgery are Not the Same

Traditional ACL surgery Washington DC techniques typically use was is called a bundle graft, and don't worry about putting it where the original ligament was found. However, more recent advances have led to a focus on anatomical ACL surgery that pays attention to matching the insertion site size, notch size, and shape of the individual anatomy.

Not all medical practices may be upfront about this, but anatomical ACL surgery is the new gold standard. If you're doctor isn't familiar with it, you may want to look elsewhere.

Experience Matters When it Comes to ACL Surgery

ACL surgery is a fairly complex procedure, and not all doctors are equally familiar with it. Logic suggests and studies show that doctors who perform procedures with which they are not as familiar tend to make more mistakes. Thus, it will be worth your time to look around for someone who's got a lot of experience and well versed in all the different ways to approach your particular injury.

Not all Grafts are Equal When it Comes to ACL Surgery

Grafts (the taking of ligament tissue to rebuild the ACL) are the most common approach to ACL surgery Washington DC. However, there are both autografts (using tissue from one's own body), and allografts (using tissue from a donor body). In the case of autografts, there are also different options for where tissue is taken from (the tendon around the knee, the hamstring, etc.). There are pluses and minuses to each approach, but the most important part is that you find a doctor who understands all those pros and cons and can help you think it all through and make the best choice for you.

ACL surgery is a big investment in your time and energy, beginning post-injury and ranging sometimes as long as a year post-surgery before you've fully regained mobility. Taking the time you need to make the best possible choices beforehand are definitely time well spent.

What to Expect at Vascular Surgery Hospitals Washington DC

There are many highly rated vascular surgery hospitals Washington DC around the country. However, many people don't even know what vascular surgery means, until it affects them or one of their loved ones directly.

What is a vascular surgeon?

Vascular surgeons are trained to treat diseases related to the vascular system. They are highly trained doctors who have chosen to go through specialized training to take on this particular focus. Your body cannot function without blood flowing throughout your body, and this specialty focuses particularly on the blood vessels that make this happen. The only veins and arteries that a vascular surgeon doesn't manage are found in the brain and the heart. That leaves carotid arteries in the neck, the aorta, and peripheral vascular disease (affecting the arteries in the legs and feet).

One might think that a vascular surgeon spends the majority of his time performing surgery. However surgeons are actually trained to be familiar with all the possible options, and many surgeons report spending the bulk of their time encouraging patients to consider other options like medication or exercise. When surgery is necessary, it's of great comfort to many patients that vascular surgeons are familiar with a variety of procedures. This includes complex, 'open' surgeries, as well as those that are minimally invasive (endovascular) procedures.

When Do You Need Vascular Surgery Hospitals Washington DC?

It is unusual for a patient to self-refer to a vascular surgeon. Instead, that typically happens through a primary care physician, or during an emergency hospital visit. Sometimes, your referral will be because of the discovery of a disease (such as the aforementioned peripheral arterial disease). However, it can also happen simply because you're in a high risk category such as being a smoker, having diabetes, or struggling with chronic high blood pressure.

Vascular surgery hospitals Washington DC are available in most areas, but it is also important to find facilities with experienced doctors and the most up-to-date equipment to ensure that you're being offered the best options with the least risk of negative outcomes. If you have any questions about the skill of the doctor or facility you first visit, you shouldn't hesitate to shop around.

When to Consider Hip Replacement Surgery DC

Written By: Allison Zahorcak

Not as mobile as you used to be?  Suffered an injury and can't get back on your feet?  Hip replacement surgery DC may be a good option to increase your mobility and regain your independence.  If you or a loved one is suffering from immobility, you know how hard it can be to have a normal day.  Talk to your doctor about replacement at your next appointment.  If you don't have one, it's time to make an appointment.

During your initial appointment, talk to your doctor about replacement and whether or not you would be a good candidate for the surgery.  He or she will talk to you about your particular situation and if they believe it to be a good idea, and will likely recommend you to a specialist who will begin the necessary pre-screening to determine whether or not you're a good fit for the surgery. This will likely include an interview about your medical history, x-rays and CAT scans, as well as a plan for pre and post operative care. As the surgery takes a few weeks to recover from, it's important to have a plan in place to start building strength for the replacement as soon as possible.

What to Expect with Hip Replacement Surgery DC

Decided that getting surgery is the best option?  You may wonder what to expect as you move forward towards the operation date.  That being said, it's important to remember that replacement is a process.  After your initial surgery, you will need to repair yourself to be on rest for 4-6 weeks.  During this time period, you may need extra assistance around the house and if you are still working, will need to plan for that time off.

Once the initial recovery time has elapsed, you should expect to attend a few months of physical therapy to help you build strength with the replacement.  Though you may never go extreme skydiving again, it's certainly a liberating feeling to be back on your feet and regain your independence.  The recovery process will be challenging but well worth the work!

Who Will You Meet When You Visit Vascular Surgery Washington DC?

Written By: Allison Zahorcak

The most important people that you will meet is your medical team. That can range from just your nurse and surgeon at first to the whole team that will be taking care of you. The great thing about vascular surgeons is that they try to inform their patients on all of their options even if it includes the decision to not do a surgery. At that point the team can monitor your progress as you go through the program that they give you to follow. So, if you were thinking, "well in that case why would a surgeon still see me?", it is true that surgeons do in fact do surgeries, but at the end of the day they are also doctors and help treat patients who do not need surgeries as well. Many vascular complications can be treated by simply exercising more and or taking medication. You can also see results from cleaning up your diet and eating less fatty foods that can clog your blood flow. One doctor is on record saying, "I spend 80 percent of my time trying to talk my patients out of surgery." Why not visit Vascular Surgery Washington DC and get an opinion from an expert.

The Reason to Visit Vascular Surgery Washington DC

You can have many different symptoms that might cause you to visit a specialist for your vascular system. It can be anything from restricted blood flow to a bodily function to irregular blood flow. As an example, vascular surgeons can treat blocked carotid arteries in the neck to peripheral, a disease that mainly effects the lower regions of your body like legs and feet. They can even do vein surgery to areas that are affected by varicose veins. For those who don't know a varicose vein, it is a vein that is a damaged blood valve that overlaps itself and in some cases creates a back flow in blood. There's a very good chance that you will run into an interventional cardiologists. These cardiologists are highly specialized in their field to detect, diagnose, and putting a plan together to treat a range of cardiovascular diseases through the method of catheter-based procedures. Some procedures might even be minimally invasive surgery and case by case for each and every patient.

ACL Repair and Achilles Tendon Repair

Written By: Sara Loch

Sports participation can help keep you healthy, but can also lead to injuries.  Minor sports injuries can be treated at home, but more serious injuries may require surgery.  Two common surgeries for sports injuries are ACL repair and Achilles tendon repair surgery.

ACL surgery Washington DC

Of the four main ligaments in your knee, the ACL is the one most often injured.  Sometimes, a minor ACL injury can be treated with rest, ice, and elevation; but more severe injuries will need ACL surgery Washington DC.  ACL repair Washington DC is usually done one of two ways: by replacing the injured tendon with a tendon grafted from a different part of the body, or by repairing the existing tendon.  When a tendon graft is used for ACL reconstruction Washington DC, the new tendon is threaded through tiny holes in your femur and tibia.  With the type of ACL surgery Washington DC that repairs the tendon, your surgeon will suture the tendon back together and place a braided suture alongside it to give you additional support.  Both types of ACL surgery Washington DC can usually be done using a minimally invasive procedure.  You can learn more about ACL surgery DC at www.medstarwashington.org.

Achilles tendon surgery

Your Achilles tendon is a long, fibrous cord in the lower leg.  It connects the muscles in your calf to your heel.  It is the largest tendon in your body and helps you walk, run, and jump.  The Achilles tendon can tear or rupture if it is hit with a sudden, strong force.  It can also degenerate overtime due to overuse.  Symptoms of damage to your Achilles tendon include pain, stiffness, or swelling along the Achilles tendon and the back of your heel.  During Achilles tendon repair surgery, your surgeon will make an incision in the back of your calf.  If the tendon is ruptured, he or she will sew it back together.  If the tendon has degenerated, the damaged part will be removed and the rest sewn back together.  If the damage is extensive, the surgeon may need to replace all or part of the Achilles tendon with a tendon from a different part of your foot.

Vascular Surgery Can Lower Risk of Stroke

Written By: Sara Loch

Stroke is when blood flow to part of the brain is stopped.  It is a very serious condition because brain cells need a constant supply of oxygen and start to die within minutes of losing blood flow.  Once brain cells have died, they cannot come back and the victim can lose the function that those brain cells controlled.  Sometimes, vascular surgery can be done to make stroke less likely.

Carotid arteries

The main blood vessels that carry blood to the brain are called the carotid arteries.  They are located in the neck, and when they become narrowed they may require vascular surgery DC to minimize risk for stroke.  Narrowing of these arteries is usually due to a condition called atherosclerosis.  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fatty substances or calcium on the inside lining if the arteries.  Without vascular surgery Washington DC, this build up makes it more likely that a clot will get stuck and block blood flow to the brain, causing a stoke.  Without vein surgery DC, the build up can also cause a stroke if a piece of it breaks off and travels to the brain.

Symptoms that vein surgery DC is needed

Sometimes, there is no indication that vascular surgery DC is needed on the carotid arteries until a stroke or TIA happens.  A TIA is sometimes called a mini-stroke.  It is when blood flow to the brain is interrupted only briefly and the person fully recovers.  Symptoms of a stroke or TIA should not be ignored because they can mean that you need vein surgery DC.  These symptoms can include:

• Sudden weakness, clumsiness, or paralysis of an arm or leg on one side of the body.
• Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
• Numbness in face or in an arm or leg
• Temporary loss of vision
• Slurred speech

After a person suffers a stroke or TIA, the risk for a second stroke is very high.  At a vascular surgery center Washington DC, they may do a procedure to open the carotid arteries to lessen this risk.  During this vascular surgery DC, the arteries are opened and the plaque is cleaned out.  They may also place a stent to keep the artery open.

Getting Back to Normal After Hip Surgery

Written By: Rachael Kaine

Recovering from any type of surgery is a time consuming and extensive process that requires a lot of patience, concentration and dedication. It will be much easier for people that have smaller, more limited impact surgeries to get back to normal, but for those that have procedures that immobilize specific areas of the body for periods of time, the recovery process can be much more serious. Hip surgery DC is something that many people go through each year, but the recovery process will be slightly different for every patient - the trick to getting through this period without problems is paying attention, doing what you are told, and not getting disheartened if there is a small setback or two.

Hip Surgery: Immediately After Surgery

Even though you will be required to stay in the hospital for a few days after having hip surgery DC, this is a chance for you to begin the recovery process. Surprisingly, you’ll be asked to get up and out of bed while you’re still in the hospital, but you’ll have access to a walker or other stabilizing device; your hip will not be capable of supporting your full weight for long periods of time yet. During the hospital stay, you can use medication to get through the pain, but not all patients find this to be necessary.

Once you can get into and out of the hospital bed on your own, you’ll be discharged to go home and continue your recovery process there. Driving is not allowed, so you’ll need someone to transport you from the hospital to your home, and since you won’t be able to stand or walk long distances on your own, you’ll probably need someone to assist you around the house for a few days, (or weeks, in some cases) too. This driving restriction will stay in place for at least a month, so make plans for assistance before having the surgery so that you have one less thing to worry about.

The Hip Surgery Recovery Process

The first step is to work toward becoming pain free as the surgical site heals. Hip surgery Washington DC patients will be working toward becoming independent again, which means being able to walk throughout their homes without pain, and even to make short outdoor walks, too. In the beginning, a walker or cane can be used, but the goal with hip surgery procedures is to allow people to move around on their own, without aids.

Long term goals for recovery include a total healing of the surgical site and the internal tissues and muscles. The total recovery time sometimes takes longer, but the goal is for patients to feel capable and “normal” after 6 months, with their mobility improved to the point that they feel better than they did before having surgery. During the recovery process, pushing a little further each day is essential, but trying too hard and doing too much too quickly can lead to re-injuring yourself, or even causing severe damage to the healing part of the hip… so listen to instructions and listen to your body throughout.